Dr. Geoffrey Shannon:

It may be necessary to look at the experience in the case of adoption, because we can learn from it. In recent times there has been much discourse around this right to identity, which is also an international requirement under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and a right that has been articulated before the European Court of Human Rights. In our oral presentation we have stated that further consideration needs to be given to this aspect. I cited the example of the UK and perhaps we should look at that. I am aware that it is not without difficulty.

The debate has moved on and this right to identity is now a key right. The Supreme Court decision in IO'T v. B is now dated and does not reflect the current thinking of the European Court of Human Rights. It is a very important right and one to which the committee should give close attention.